Through the Light the World Giving Machine initiative, thousands of individuals and families will be fed, clothed, educated, strengthened, and become more self-reliant
The bright red vending machines of the Light the World Giving Machine initiative illuminated the Las Vegas Valley again in 2024, as visitors generously gave of themselves to help lift and support someone in need, whether in our community or across the world.
- More than 3,700 meals will feed the hungry in our community
- Schoolchildren will receive more than 2,200 books
- More than 1,400 senior citizens will receive support such as transportation, blankets, and home repair
- More than 2,500 infants will receive formula, bottles, diapers, and car seats
- Over 2,800 chickens and goats will provide food and jobs for thousands of families and villagers
- Additionally, those I need will receive work clothes, clubfoot braces, bed, vitamins, and more.
Launched in 2017 by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the annual Light the World Giving Machine initiative has become a global phenomenon. In 2024, vending machines were in 107 cities across thirteen countries and five continents, impacting millions of individuals and families. Since the first Giving Machine was introduced, nearly US$50 million has been donated by children, teens, and adults worldwide.
About Light The World
#LightTheWorld is an invitation from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to transform Christmas into a season of service. It’s a worldwide movement to touch hearts and change lives by doing the things Jesus did: feeding the hungry, comforting the lonely, visiting the sick and afflicted, and showing kindness to everyone. Jesus said, “Ye are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14).
The Giving Machines provide a way for people to easily help those in need and to make the Christmas season a little more meaningful for themselves – and for countless others.
Imagine swiping your credit card at a vending machine – but instead of buying a candy bar for yourself, you’re buying a goat for a family in a third-world country to start a business or a pair of shoes for a homeless high school student in Southern Nevada. #LightTheWorld is the perfect way to let our light—and His light—shine brightly.
2024 Charities
Click on the charity to be directed to their individual web pages for more information on the services they offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Light the World Giving Machines?
Vending machines where donating to a charity of your choice is as easy as buying a candy bar.
How do they work?
Insert a credit or debit card and select one or more items from the vending machine. A Styrofoam card with a photo of the item you have purchased will drop to the bottom of the machine, signifying the purchase you have made.
How can I pay?
The Giving Machines accept all major U.S. credit cards and debit cards – just like a regular vending machine. However, it does not accept cash.
Where are the machines?
The Giving Machines are located next to Francesca’s, on the Promenade at Downtown Summerlin, 2010 Festival Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89135. The site is across the plaza on the east side of Macy’s. We’re just across the street from Santa’s Chalet!
In addition, Giving Machines are also located at The District at Green Valley Ranch, 2240 Village Walk Drive, Henderson, NV 89052. The site is between Pottery Barn and Aerie.
When are they open?
The Giving Machines open on Wednesday, November 15, 2023 and will remain open through Monday, January 1, 2023.
They are open daily from 9am to 11pm.
Can I make a purchase on behalf of someone else? How can I notify the recipient an item has been purchased on his or her behalf?
When you’re looking for the just-right gift for someone who has everything, why not consider buying something for someone who needs everything? For a single purchase over $25, show your electronic receipt to a volunteer at the Giving Machines to get a Light the World card so you can notify your recipient of the gift you purchased in his/her name.
What charities can I donate to at the Giving Machines?
Choose from 10 local charities and 3 global charities:
Downtown Summerlin
Baby’s Bounty
Communities In Schools
JFSA
Opportunity Village
The Just One Project
Church World Services
Clubfoot Solutions
WaterAid
The District at Green Valley Ranch
Catholic Charities
Helping Hands of Vegas Valley
SafeNest
Spread the Word Nevada
Three Square
Church World Services
Clubfoot Solutions
WaterAid
What can I give?
You can select from 30 different items ranging from meals to diapers to bus passes to job training to two hens and a rooster for a family in a developing country. Each charity has selected these items based on the high-priority needs they have identified for the populations they serve.
How much can I donate?
Items in the Las Vegas Giving Machines range from $5 to $250.
If I can't get to the Giving Machines, is there a way to donate online?
Yes! You can donate online to the organizations participating in the Giving Machines using the links above. Or you can go to the “Meet the Charities” section of this page and click on the charity’s name to visit their website and donate in support of Light the World online.
Why donate at a Giving Machine instead of some other way?
At a Light the World Giving Machine, all of your donation – 100% – reaches the people served. Overhead costs for the machines, credit card fees, and the administrative fees for the designated charity are covered by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
You and your family and friends get to actually see and choose what to give. Take a selfie while you’re there and share it with your friends and family as you help #LightTheWorld!
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Donations are eligible for tax deductions. Electronic receipts will be available by text or email.